Magic Johnson’s tenure at ESPN as an NBA analyst ended today. According to the network, Magic left on good terms due to other commitments he has in the near future. A Deadspin report came out shortly after the news broke, saying that Bill Simmons was the reason for Magic leaving, but Simmons has since denied this rumor.
In the meantime, ESPN is adding Doug Collins and Doris Burke to the NBA Countdown show for this season to fill the void. Collins is on the show to replace Mike Wilbon, who according to the same Deadspin report, was removed at the wishes of Simmons. They then claim that that move rubbed Magic the wrong way and inspired him to leave ESPN. Nothing like some good old network television drama!
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